Is hydro considered renewable?
A hydroelectric facility of 30 megawatts (MW) or less (“small hydro”) is an eligible renewable resource. If its generation was owned or purchased by a utility before September 12, 2002, its output will classified as “baseline” rather than be the “incremental” renewable generation. PG&E expects to procure both incremental and baseline renewable resources because both will contribute to PG&E’s 20% renewables goal. If the small hydro facility began operation after September 11, 2002, it is not eligible if it requires a “new or increased appropriation or diversion” of water. The following three CEC Guidebooks provide more detail: (1) Renewables Portfolio Standard Eligibility Guidebook, which addresses RPS eligibility and certification; (2) New Renewable Facilities Program Guidebook, addressing SEP payments; and (3) Overall Program Guidebook for the Renewable Energy Program, addressing program administration. Links to these Guidebooks are provided in PG&E’s 2005 Renewables RFO webpage.
